History Revealed

Unveiling the Layers of History

Episode 3: Unveiling the Layers of History

As we continue our journey through Kanchanaburi, our next stop takes us to the bustling Kanchanaburi Market, a vibrant hub of activity nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of the town. Little do many visitors know, this bustling market was once the site of a POW camp during World War II

DUNLOPS RESEARCH TRIP 1INSIGHTS IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS BLOGWW2 HISTORY

Simon Lee

11/23/20232 min read

Kanchanaburi WW2 Areal Photo of POW Camp 1944. Shows the POW camps that was bombed several times
Kanchanaburi WW2 Areal Photo of POW Camp 1944. Shows the POW camps that was bombed several times

As we continue our journey through Kanchanaburi, our next stop takes us to the bustling Kanchanaburi Market, a vibrant hub of activity nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of the town. Little do many visitors know, this bustling market was once the site of a POW camp during World War II, bearing witness to the trials and tribulations endured by Allied prisoners of war.

Tracing the Footsteps of the Past

Uncovering the Legacy of the POW Camp

The Kanchanaburi Market stands as a poignant reminder of the town’s tumultuous history, serving as a tangible link to the events that unfolded during the dark days of World War II. Amidst the vibrant colors and lively chatter of the market stalls, echoes of the past resonate, offering glimpses into the lives of those who were held captive within its confine

WW2 aerial photo of Kanchanaburi in in 1944. POW camp near River Kwai
WW2 aerial photo of Kanchanaburi in in 1944. POW camp near River Kwai
Kanchanaburi Market Place, once the site of WW2 POW camp near the River Kwai bridge
Kanchanaburi Market Place, once the site of WW2 POW camp near the River Kwai bridge

Honouring the Memory of the Fallen

The construction of the Death Railway began in 1942, as part of the Japanese military’s strategic ambition to establish a supply route between Thailand and Burma. Thousands of Allied prisoners of war, along with Asian laborers, were subjected to inhumane conditions and relentless labor as they toiled to carve a path through the unforgiving terrain of the Thai-Burma border.

POW's WW2 Thailand, building bridge as part of the death railway 1943
POW's WW2 Thailand, building bridge as part of the death railway 1943
Kanchanaburi Cemetery with some 7000 pows buried at the site
Kanchanaburi Cemetery with some 7000 pows buried at the site
POW's working on the Death Railway during WW2 1943
POW's working on the Death Railway during WW2 1943
A Sanctuary of Resilience:


St Andrews Australia Research Team at the Bridge over the River Kwai 2023
St Andrews Australia Research Team at the Bridge over the River Kwai 2023
St Andrews Australia Research Team crossing the Bridge over the River Kwai 2023 Tours of War
St Andrews Australia Research Team crossing the Bridge over the River Kwai 2023 Tours of War
Episode 4:

Bridge Over the River Kwai, Part 1:
The Bridge Today

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Explore Kanchanaburi

Discover the beautiful tourist town of Kanchanaburi located just a few hours away from Bangkok. Enjoy the scenic views and rich history of this charming destination.

Location

1 hr 31 min (124.6 km) via Special Highway No. Bang Yai District - Kanchanaburi/Special Highway No. 81

Transport

Train, Bus Vans or Private Tour pick ups